Great Lakes Wire

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has announced the recipients of its "Guardian of Small Business Award" for the 2023-2024 session. This award is the NFIB's most esteemed legislative accolade and is presented in recognition of Michigan lawmakers' support for small business interests.

"The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is presented to legislators who have proven themselves to be real champions of small business," stated Amanda Fisher, NFIB Michigan State Director. Fisher emphasized the challenging legislative environment over the past two years, noting, "During the last two years, Michigan faced a barrage of anti-small business legislation with the potential to threaten the survival of many small businesses."

While only eight lawmakers could receive the award, Fisher expressed gratitude to the entire House and Senate Republican Caucuses for their roles in opposing potentially detrimental policies. "They worked with NFIB and advocated the small business position in a hostile legislative environment, and we are delighted we can honor them with this award," she added.

NFIB focuses solely on representing small and independent businesses. Its members decide the organization's policy positions, and lawmakers are informed in advance which votes will count as "NFIB Key Votes." These results are then communicated back to NFIB members.

The winners of the 2023-24 Guardian Award include:

- Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt

- Senator Thomas Albert

- Senator Dan Lauwers

- Speaker Matt Hall

- Representative Mike Harris

- Representative Tom Kunse

- Representative David Martin

- Representative Dave Prestin

Amanda Fisher from NFIB presented the Guardian Award to Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt.

For more information, the complete Michigan 2023-24 Voting Record can be accessed.